I recently read in a book that 's a bit dated 1978 about a product called Tru Scale ATC (Automatic Tru Train Control) . Basically if 2 trains are on the same track and one is about to overtake the other that a red signal light will be activated and the faster train will will stop until the other one is far enough ahead to avoid the rear end collison. Once far enough ahead the signal turns to green and the trailing train starts back up. It’s accomplished by relay control units. Does anyone have experience with this ? How does it actually work ? What do you need to do besides install the signal ? Is there a similar or updated product on the market that performs the same function ? Interesting product for those of us without DCC or who do not want complete control all the time. Thanks in advance for your reply.
Sounds more like a layout signaling scheme based on block detection–the layout is divided into signaling “blocks”, and the system is set up so that if the block ahead of a train is occupied with another train, its signal will go red and prevent the train from advancing until the block ahead of it is clear. It’s a fairly complex thing, and considering the advances in electronics since 1978 I’m dead certain that there are more modern and advanced ways of doing it. But any complete signal system is going to be fairly complex…
As Jetrock indicated, ATTC used current sensors and relays to detect trains, change signal indications, throw turnouts, and stop/start trains. A very complex wiring nightmare that can now all be put onto one printed circuit board using microchips. Anything as old as 1978 technology is hopelessly outdated and has been replaced by computerization. Similar systems are now available through DCC and computer control at far less cost than those old systems.